Frequently Asked Questions How do I join Band or Color Guard? Visit the JOIN! page to find information on how to join any of our ensembles as well as how to sign up for Band Camp. The Marching Band and Color Guard season begins with Band Camp in early August. Families are encouraged to sign up for Band Camp by July so that you are added to the Fall season roster. Is Band Camp mandatory? All students planning on participating in our Fall Marching Band and Color Guard unit are expected to attend our BAND CAMP at the beginning of August. If an unavoidable conflict arises where a student cannot make this event, they must contact the band director to be put on the roster so that they do not fall behind. Does Marching Band count towards Physical Education credit? Yes! Students need 2 years of P.E. and are required to complete one of those years as a Freshmen. Two seasons of Marching Band will count toward the second year of P.E. Are students required to be in the marching band if they are enrolled in an instrumental class? Students enrolled in any band class are strongly encouraged to attend Band Camp in August. Besides being one of the most popular performing groups on campus, marching band is a great opportunity to make friends and improve your skills dramatically by learning from our incredible instructional staff. Our Fall marching season runs from August through mid-November. Is it safe to play together on campus yet? Yes, instrumental ensembles in the SRVUSD have been meeting in person for safe outdoor rehearsals. All decisions made regarding student safety will be made with district and administrative approval. As safety guidelines change, we will continue to monitor all CDC, state, county and district guidance and regulations as we create performer protocols for students to return to in-person playing for the coming school year. What costs are associated with joining the music program? All students participating in an instrumental music ensemble are asked to submit a Fair Share Participant Contribution. Details on Participant Contribution amounts are covered at the Band Camp parent meeting, during classes, and during Back to School Night at the start of the year. You can find info on our PARTICIPANT CONTRIBUTION page. All payments are made via Cal High’s FutureFund registration system. Can I join Band as a Sophomore/ Junior/ Senior? Yes! It is never too late to join any of our ensembles! Do I have to audition to join an instrumental ensemble? Students do not need to audition to join Marching Band & Color Guard, Symphonic Band, Orchestra or Winter Guard/Percussion. Advanced ensembles such as Chamber Orchestra, Jazz Band and Jazz Ensemble do require an audition. As an incoming Freshman, can I audition to be placed in an advanced ensemble? Incoming students are allowed to audition for advanced ensembles, but this is decided mainly based on instrumentation need. Freshmen musicians should expect to be enrolled in an entry-level ensemble. Can I join Band if I don't play an instrument? Yes! We encourage any student interested in learning a new wind or percussion instrument to sign up for Symphonic Band and Marching Band! Can students check out instruments from the school? Large wind instruments (tuba, trombone, baritone, bass clarinet, tenor/bari sax) are available for check out. We have some smaller instruments available for check out (flutes, clarinets, trumpets, alto saxophones) on a very limited basis. String instruments are available on a limited basis. Families will need to fill out an instrument rental agreement form to use a school-owned instrument. As a parent, how can I get involved? All parents are encouraged to participate in our Cal High Instrumental Music Booster club! There are many positions and committees to serve on, including equipment road crew, hospitality, spirit wear, social media, photographer/videographer, and helping with various events throughout the year! Go to our VOLUNTEER page to learn more! How long is the marching band season? Does marching band go all year? Our Marching Band season lasts from Band Camp (beginning of August) through mid-November. See our Marching Band and Color Guard Rehearsal Schedule on our MARCHING BAND page What is the time commitment for Marching Band rehearsals? The Cal High Marching Band and Color Guard meets on Monday and Wednesday evenings during the Fall, as well as some Saturday afternoon/evenings. The Marching Band performs at all Friday home football games as well as 4-5 Saturday field competitions and a few parades and rallies in the Fall. Can a student join marching band and also participate in sports or other extra-curricular activities? Yes! Our Marching Band and Color Guard students are involved in many sports and clubs! The Band Director meets with coaches to create a conflict schedule so that Band/Sports students always know where they need to be on a given day. Do ensembles participate in Spring performance tours? Our advanced ensembles have the opportunity to participate in a Spring Performance Tour. These trips are dependent on amount of student sign-ups and ensemble fundraising. Where can families go to learn about upcoming music events? Go to the EVENTS page. We will also share event updates via our Facebook and Instagram accounts, and we send out a regular Instrumental Music newsletter to enrolled families.

New Member & Returning Member Orientation Meetings New Member Orientation 🗓️ Date: Thursday April 17, 2025 📍 Location: Cal High Theater ⏰ Time: 7:00 PM Returning Member Orientation 🗓️ Date: Thursday April 24, 2025 📍 Location: Cal HighBand Room ⏰ Time: 7:00 PM This orientation meeting will go over everything you need to know about the music program at Cal High. If you are interested in starting a new instrument 🎷, continuing the same instrument 🎺, or playing in a new ensemble 🎼, we will go over all of the necessary materials to help you get started. We will discuss all of the classes 🏛️ offered for the music program as well as auditions, prerequisites, calendar dates 🗓️, and volunteering opportunities.This will be a great opportunity to meet fellow members, our student leadership team, instructional staff, parents, and the executive booster board to learn more about our organization and ask any questions you may have. We are asking if you are going to be in the instrumental music program this coming year that you attend one of these meetings. If you are a new member you only need to come to the new member meeting. Thursday April 17, 2025. If you are a returning member you only need to come to the returning member meeting. Thursday April 24, 2025. This meeting is open to all students and parents.If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact Bob Grigas, Director of Instrumental Music at CHS, at rgrigas@srvusd.net

Awards & Regalia Concert Attire program handbook Stores & Equipment program sign up Honor Bands Resources Want to stay organized and informed throughout the school year? Our collection of resource pages is your one-stop hub for everything you need to support your student’s success in the Cal High Instrumental Music Program. Start with the Store & Equipment page, where you’ll find links to required gear, spirit wear, and options for purchasing or borrowing instruments. The Music Handbook is essential reading - it outlines key policies, expectations, and procedures for all students involved in band, orchestra, and color guard. For students eager to grow musically and socially, don’t miss the Honor Bands page. These advanced ensembles offer students the chance to perform challenging music, build connections with talented peers across the region and beyond, and gain valuable experience for college scholarship auditions. Visit the Awards & Regalia section to learn about special recognitions available to our musicians, including “Varsity” Block Letters, Honor Cords, and Graduation Stoles that celebrate commitment and achievement. Our Concert Attire page provides dress requirements for each class and emphasizes the importance of a clean, polished, and professional appearance to reflect ensemble pride. Whether you’re new or returning, be sure to complete the Music Program Sign-Up Form to officially register for the upcoming season. These resource pages are designed to keep you informed, connected, and ready for an exciting and successful year in music!

Leadership Expectations Leadership Application Submit Audition Videos Student Leadership The Cal High Band Leadership Team is a vital part of our Instrumental Music program, playing a key role in supporting students and maintaining program expectations. Our leadership structure beginning with the Band Director and extending through the Drum Major and Section Leaders is essential to the success of both our band and guard. Student leaders are expected to take responsibility for their section’s preparedness at rehearsals, performances, and beyond, and also be responsible to their section by fostering a positive, high-level learning environment. To be eligible for a leadership position, students must be enrolled in Marching Band. Applications open near the end of the school year, and dedicated, responsible students are encouraged to apply. LEADERSHIP APPLICATION Students considering applying for leadership will need to fill out a Google Form application which includes a short answer essay section. (Google form will be posted in March) DRUM MAJOR AUDITION Those interested in the role of Drum Major will submit a conducting video audition in addition to filling out a Leadership Application. (Drum Major application requirements posted in March) Please email drum major audition videos to calhighmusic.auditions@gmail.com SELECTION PROCESS Leadership is chosen by the Band Director based on quality of application responses, audition performance (for drum majors), a student's yearly performance, and consultation with teachers, administrators, instructional staff and boosters. The Band Director may ask to sit down with applicants for an interview prior to selecting the leadership team. 2025-2026 Leadership Team Drum Majors Om Iyer & Yasasri Chintapalli Section Leaders Flutes: Cindy Li Reeds: Aathirai Arunkumar High Brass: Josh Mann Low Brass: Zailey Fogelman Battery Captain: Owen Burlingame Front Ensemble: Akshay Mahendran Color Guard Co Captains: Hannah Ly & Naomi Parsons Managers Equipment Manager: Kaleo Abadam Community Engagement Manager: Mercy Rajan Uniform Manager: Amiia Lyons Locker Manager: JD Cardinalli Librarians: Xiaolei Zhang & Kate Shu

Program Handbook Concert Attire Equipment Auditions Jazz Bands Cal High offers two jazz performance classes for student musicians. Jazz Band is open to all students with at least one year of experience and focuses on styles like blues, swing, and improvisation, performing at school concerts and fundraisers. Jazz Ensemble is an advanced, audition-based group that explores challenging jazz styles and theory, performing at school events and a spring festival. For more information, read details for each class below. JAZZ BAND (JAZZ B) The Jazz Band is a class open to all musicians wishing to learn about and improve upon various jazz styles, including the blues, swing, and improvisation. Students are recommended to have at least one year of playing experience on a wind or rhythm section instrument. The Jazz Band participates in all school concerts and program fundraisers. JAZZ ENSEMBLE (JAZZ A - AUDITION BASED) The Jazz Ensemble is an advanced, auditioned ensemble comprised of saxophones, trumpets, trombone, and rhythm section instruments. Students may audition for Jazz Ensemble at the end of the school year. This class covers advanced jazz repertoire in various styles including Latin, Swing, and Rock/Funk, as well as jazz music theory concepts. The Jazz Ensemble participates in all school concerts and program fundraisers as well as a CMEA or NCBA festival during the Spring. Note: Auditions for Jazz Ensemble is now closed for the 2025-2026 school year. Information for the following year will be published in the Spring. Equipment, Attire & Auditions: Stores & Equipment Concert Attire Auditions For more information about Jazz Bands, contact the Band Director Mr. Grigas at rgrigas@srvusd.net

BE PART OF THE TRADITION Program Handbook BAND CAMP Rehearsal Schedule Cal High Marching Grizzlies Continuing a proud tradition of excellence, the California High School Marching Ensemble stands as one of the premier marching units in the Tri-Valley area. As the largest performance group at Cal High, the ensemble is known for its spirited performances, musical precision, and history of competitive success. You can catch them energizing the crowd at football games, lighting up school rallies, bringing joy to local parades, and showcasing their talent at field competitions throughout the year. The Marching Ensemble rehearses during the Fall on Monday and Wednesday evenings, as well as some Saturday mornings and afternoons. The band typically competes in 4-5 field competitions, marches 1-2 parades, and performs at rallies and home football games. Awards 1st Place Overall - 2024 NCBA 4A Division: Liberty Field Show 2nd Place Colorguard - 2024 NCBA 4A Div: Liberty Field Show 2nd Place Percussion - 2024 NCBA 4A Div: Liberty Field Show 2nd Place Colorguard - 2024 NCBA 4A Div: Foothill Band Review 1st Place Field - 2024 NCBA 4A Div: Lodi Grape Bowl Classic 3rd Place Percussion - 2024 NCBA 4A Div: Lodi Grape Bowl Classic 1st Place General Effect - 2023 NCBA 2A Div Liberty Band Review 1st Place Overall - 2023 NCBA 2A Div Liberty Band Review 1st Place Field - 2023 NCBA 2A Div Foothill Band Review 1st Place Percussion - 2023 NCBA 2A Div Foothill Band Review 2nd Place Brass - 2023 NCBA 2A Div Foothill Band Review 3rd Place Woodwinds - 2023 NCBA 2A Div Foothill Band Review 3rd Place Colorguard - 2023 NCBA 2A Div Foothill Band Review 1st Place Field - 2023 NCBA 2A Div: Lodi Grape Bowl Classic DRUMLINE Snare, Tenor & Bass Drums Drumline is a high-energy performance ensemble made up of battery and front ensemble percussionists. The battery section features snare drums, tenor drums, and bass drums, providing the driving rhythm and visual impact in field shows, parades, and school spirit events. As a core part of the marching band, the drumline develops students’ musical and technical skills through regular rehearsals, performances, and competitions. Open to all percussionists, it offers a dynamic team experience that builds coordination, discipline, and school pride. HORNLINE Woodwind and Brass Instruments Hornline is the core melodic and harmonic section of the marching band, made up of woodwind instruments such as flutes, clarinets, and saxophones, and brass instruments including trumpets, mellophones, trombones, baritones, and tubas. This powerful ensemble brings energy and expression to field shows, parades, and school performances. Hornline members build strong fundamentals in tone, technique, and teamwork while performing challenging and exciting music throughout the season. FRONT ENSEMBLE Mallet Keyboard and Auxiliary Percussion Front Ensemble is an essential part of the marching band, featuring mallet keyboard instruments such as marimba, vibraphone, and xylophone, along with a wide range of auxiliary percussion including cymbals, tambourines, concert bass drum, and more. Positioned at the front of the field, this group adds depth, texture, and melodic elements to the overall performance. Students in the front ensemble develop strong musicianship, coordination, and ensemble skills while contributing to dynamic field shows and competitions. COLOR GUARD Dance & Spin Flags, Sabers and Rifles Color Guard adds visual artistry and impact to the marching band through a vibrant blend of dance and precision equipment work. Members learn to spin flags, sabers, and rifles, combining movement and choreography to bring music to life on the field. Performing in all field shows, parades, and competitions, the color guard enhances the overall performance with energy, expression, and creativity. No prior experience is required, just a passion for performance and a willingness to learn. Course description can be found in the handbook and UC/CSU admissions info can be found on the district website . For more information about the Marching Grizzlies, contact the Band Director Mr. Grigas at rgrigas@srvusd.net

We are the California HS Music Mentorship Program! Winter guard is an indoor color pageantry sport with its roots in military and veterans organizations ceremonies. Modern winter guard incorporates choreographed dance, acting, flags, and non-functioning rifles and sabres, along with other props. Unlike traditional color guard, winter guard is performed indoors, usually in a gymnasium or an indoor arena. Performances make use of recorded music rather than a live band or orchestra. Winter guards compete in local, state, and national circuits and is a growing activity in schools and independent organizations throughout the country! Do I need dance or color guard experience? No experience is necessary! While it is always beneficial for members have at least one year of color guard or dance experience, if a student is willing and committed to working hard, they will find a place on our team!

PROGRAM HANDBOOK Volunteer Signups Potluck Signup BAND CAMP At Band Camp, you'll spend a week bonding with your fellow bandmates in sections, working on technique and learning fun music. By the end of camp, you'll feel right at home with the Cal High Band! Camp activities will be monitored to ensure students are getting plenty of water breaks and time in the shade. The majority of camp will be outdoors, so it is very important that all students bring the proper items to have a successful and safe experience. BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS: Be on time and prepared. Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes before the scheduled rehearsal time. Be respectful of the equipment and the space you use. If you borrow an instrument from the school, treat it as you would your personal instrument. Help clean up all spaces at the end of rehearsal blocks. There will be time for fun and games, and time for focus and hard work. Be respectful toward your instructional staff. Have fun and be willing to meet new people! The people you meet at band camp may end up becoming your best friends! WHAT TO BRING TO CAMP: Hat and sunglasses Backpack Sunscreen Lunch A mechanical pencil and 3-ring binder with sheet protectors for all music/exercises (instrumentalists only, not guard) Rehearsal Water Jug (must be at least 32 oz; half-gallon recommended: Coleman 1-gallon Beverage Cooler Jug ) Flip Folders and Lyres (required for wind musicians, see Mr. G if you are unsure of which one to buy) Flip Folders Brass Lyres Woodwind Lyres Ear protection (required for drumline members), recommended: Vic Firth Regular High Fidelity Ear Plugs Wind players: Instrument in working condition, including mouthpiece/extra reeds. Shoe lace or string to hang dotbook around neck during rehearsal 3x5 spiral notebook for drill Color Guard: Please wear clothing you can stretch in. Your hair must be pulled back away from your face. No obtrusive jewelry. All members: Please keep in mind that you will be moving all day. Dress in comfortable athletic clothing and running shoes. No jeans. No sandals/flip flops. PARTICIPANT SAFETY We will be following the current state and district guidelines to ensure all members are safe and comfortable during our Camp. Any changes to district guidelines will be communicated to all families via email. 🎶 Band Camp Schedule 🎶 📅 August 4 – August 9, 2025. *Students will need to provide their own lunch* Monday Camp Hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm Lunch: 12:00pm – 1:00pm * Drumline Practice: 8:00am – 2:00pm, 6:00pm – 9:00pm Tuesday - Friday Camp Hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm Lunch: 12:00pm – 1:00pm * Drumline Practice: 9:00am – 2:00pm, 6:00pm – 9:00pm Saturday Camp Hours: 9:00am – 4:00pm Lunch: 12:00pm – 1:00pm * Drumline Practice: 9:00am – 4:00pm Break: 4:00pm – 5:00pm Parent Preview: 5:00pm – 6:00pm Potluck Dinner: 6:00pm See Potluck SignUp to bring a dish

Calendar of Events Booster Club Bylaws Become a Volunteer INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC BOOSTER CLUB We are a dedicated non-profit organization made up of Band, Color Guard, and Orchestra families who share a passion for supporting music education at California High School. As boosters, we play a vital role in enriching the Cal High Instrumental Music program through fundraising efforts, coordinating volunteers, and assisting the Band Director with planning and executing events throughout the year. Any parent, guardian, or caretaker that has a student in the Instrumental Music Program is automatically considered a valued member of our supportive music community. Their involvement plays a vital role in enhancing the overall experience for all students, whether through volunteering, attending performances, participating in booster meetings, or contributing in other meaningful ways. We encourage all families to stay engaged, as their presence and support help foster a vibrant, inclusive, and successful program for our young musicians. We hold monthly meetings during the school year, beginning in August, where we share updates, discuss upcoming events, and collaborate on ways to strengthen our program. Attending these meetings is a great opportunity to stay informed, have your voice heard, and connect with other music families. Active participation in the Booster Club allows you to make a direct impact on your student’s experience, help shape memorable performances and trips, and be part of a supportive, music-loving community. BOOSTER CLUB MEETINGS Join us for our Booster Club meetings everyone is welcome! These gatherings are a great way to stay connected on the latest news about what's happening, share ideas, and support our incredible student musicians. Whether you're a new parent or a returning volunteer, your voice and energy make a difference. Come be part of the fun and help us make this year unforgettable! All parents of current students are encouraged to attend! SCHEDULE Join us for our Booster Club meetings, held on the third Thursday of each month from 7:00 to 8:00 PM in the Band Room. Attend in person or conveniently virtually, we’d love to see you there! Dates for 2025-2026 Booster Meetings (click on date for meeting notes): 0 8/21 , 9/18, 10/16, 11/20, 12/18, 01/15, 02/19, 03/19, 04/16, 05/21 Virtual Link https://meet.google.com/dwo-sdhs-fyj 2025-2026 BOOSTER EXECUTIVE BOARD Vice President: Zenaida President: Julie Treasurer: Megan Secretary: Arti Fundraising: Kelly & Debora 2024-2025 BOOSTER CLUB COMMITTEE LEADS Hospitality - *Kads Lele - Lead, Varsha Govindani, Christian Mattei Volunteer Coordinator - Zenaida Abadam Newsletter Coordinator - Booster Executive Board Pit Boss - Jeremy Fogelman Transportation Coordinator - Bob Burlingame Prop Boss - Walt Rugani & Dan Rugani Spiritwear Coordinator - Arti Arora Webmaster - Kelly Cardinalli Photographer - Raju Bhupatiraju Elementary/Middle School Recruitment - Dan Rugani and Briana Berastain End of Season Banquet (Marching Ensemble) - Zenaida Abadam, Christine Helmer, Georgine Brenghause Open Chair Positions Grant Writer Alumni Coordinator

Check Eligibility Awards and Regalia As a dedicated member of the Cal High Instrumental Music program, students have the opportunity to earn special recognition for their commitment, growth, and contributions throughout the year. These honors include prestigious "Varsity" Block Letters, colorful Honor Cords, and distinguished Graduation Stoles—each symbolizing the hard work, passion, and pride that students bring to the program. These awards not only celebrate musical achievement but also serve as lasting reminders of their time and impact within the Cal High music community. How can I earn these items? MUSIC Varsity Instrumental Music Block Letters can be earned after either 3 years or 6 semesters of instrumental music classes taken at Cal High. Cal High currently offers the following instrumental music classes: Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Jazz Ensemble, Strings Orchestra, and Chamber Orchestra. A student may earn a Block Letter by participating in any combination of these music classes for a total of 6 semesters. A student must receive a passing grade for it to count toward block letter eligibility. MARCHING BAND & COLORGUARD Students in the Varsity Marching Band or Colorguard have the opportunity to earn a Block Letter after completing 3 full seasons (typically three Fall semesters) of participation in the program. To qualify, students must receive a passing grade for each Fall semester of Marching Band or Colorguard, as successful academic performance is a key component of eligibility. Additionally, students who participate in a Cal High winter marching season - such as Winterguard, Winter Percussion, or a similar ensemble - may count one of those seasons as a substitute for a Fall semester toward their Block Letter requirement. This flexible pathway allows students with a deep commitment to the program to be recognized for their dedication and continued involvement. SENIOR HONOR CORD Graduating seniors who have demonstrated long-term dedication to the Cal High Instrumental Music program are eligible to receive a Senior Honor Cord—a symbol of their commitment, perseverance, and contribution to the music community. To qualify, students must have actively participated in the program for all four years of their high school career. This includes consistent enrollment in one or more music ensembles each year, such as concert band, orchestra, jazz band, marching band, or color guard. The Honor Cord is worn during the graduation ceremony and serves as a visible recognition of the student's sustained involvement, musical growth, and lasting impact on the program throughout their time at Cal High. SENIOR STOLE Graduating Seniors who have participated in the Cal High Music program (for any number of seasons or semesters) may opt to purchase an Instrumental Music Graduation Stole. Stoles will be available for purchase for $20. Please complete the form (linked above) to find out if you qualify for a Block Letter and/or Senior Honor Cord. Most students typically become eligible for a Block Letter during their junior year. If you’re not eligible this year, no worries - you may qualify in the future as you continue your involvement in the program.

Our Bandapalooza event will be held in the spring semester. Dates TBD. Open to all Pine Valley & Iron Horse 6th-8th Grade Band students! Spend a day performing hits from your favorite movies, including Star Wars, The Avengers, Disney films and more! Rehearse and perform side-by-side with members of the Cal High Band! More info coming soon!! Questions? Please contact Mr. Javier Cerna, CHS Band Director at calhighmusic@gmail.com

May 13 - May 17th Spring Online Auction FLASH SALE!!! Click Here to Register & Bid FLASH SALE .... We have a few items left from our Spring Online Auction at great prices!!! The FLASH SALE will kick off on Monday, May 13th at noon and end on May 17th at noon. Act fast .... these items won't last!! DONATIONS Huge thanks to all of our AMAZING donors!!! Business Logos